2015 Ferrari 458 Spider

Vehicle Summary

The Ferrari 458 Spider is the hardtop convertible variant of the 458 Italia and is powered by a 4.5-liter V-8 with 562 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque that’s paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Since the car is geared toward performance, fuel economy isn’t a strong point at 13/17 mpg city/highway. The 458 will be replaced by the 488 GTB for the 2016 model year.

Research

Overview

Despite being heavier than its coupe sibling and having less torsional rigidity, the 458 Spider remains an excellent driving machine with impeccable handling thanks to its well-tuned chassis. Acceleration is brisk due to the car’s high-revving V-8 and responsive transmission, which are unchanged from the 458 Italia.

As with all Ferraris, the 458 Spider can be personalized with a host of customization options. Exterior options include over 20 exterior colors, a black roof, five wheel designs, seven brake caliper colors, and carbon fiber accents. Cabin customization is also extensive and included two-tone interior upholsteries in leather or leather and Alcantara, contrast stitching and piping, and five types of sports seats. Performance upgrades include a sport exhaust system and a suspension lifter.

What We Think

Like its coupe counterpart, the Ferrari 458 Spider is an excellent driver’s car with impeccable handling and a responsive powertrain. In a 2012 First Drive review, we said that the car’s dual-clutch transmission was “a delight,” particularly in race mode because of its “impossibly quick” shifts. The engine, on the other hand, is “willing to rev” even “at the slightest suggestion of throttle.” Despite having less torsional rigidity, the car remains stable and didn’t get upset “even over broken tarmac, numerous speed bumps, and a couple of American-sized potholes.”